Kia Seltos 2026 Launch: Starting at ¥79,900; 8295P Chip + 27-Inch Display Standard Across All Trims

On August 26, Kia's all-new Seltos officially launched in the Chinese market. The model is offered in six trims: 1.5L Comfort, 1.5L Luxury, 1.5L Premium, 1.5T Luxury, 1.5T Premium X-Line, and 1.5T Premium Luxury X-Line — all priced under Kia's nationwide fixed-price strategy at ¥79,900–¥119,900.

As Kia's strategic model reflecting its renewed understanding of Chinese consumers, the new Seltos positions itself as the 'smartest gasoline SUV'. Though it retains a conventional internal-combustion powertrain, it significantly elevates the tech experience through deeply localized intelligent cockpits and driver-assistance systems. Notably, every trim comes standard with Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon 8295P automotive chip and a 27-inch ultra-thin widescreen display, backed by 24GB RAM and 256GB onboard storage. Its UI supports dynamic weather- and time-based theme switching; AI-powered dual-zone voice recognition, integration of Baidu's ERNIE Bot large language model, and multi-ecosystem compatibility (HiCar/CarPlay/Carlink) are all class-leading features.

In intelligent driving, the vehicle features an L2-level ADAS suite including remote smart parking assist, lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, highway driving assist, 360-degree panoramic view, and blind-spot monitoring — totaling nearly 20 functions. Seven airbags come standard.

Powertrain options include a 1.5L engine paired with IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) and a 1.5T engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission (8AT). The 1.5T unit employs fourth-generation CVVD technology, delivering up to 200 hp and peak torque of 253 N·m. Notably, this is the only model in its segment to offer an 8AT as standard — achieving up to 91.7% transmission efficiency and a WLTC combined fuel consumption as low as 6.94 L/100 km. The chassis is tuned on Kia's i-GMP platform for balanced handling stability and ride comfort.

Dimensions measure 4,460 mm (L) × 1,830 mm (W) × 1,640 mm (H), with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm — the longest in its class. Trunk capacity stands at 483 L (standard), expanding to 1,454 L with rear seats folded. Premium features include heated steering wheel, ventilated/heated front seats, smart hands-free power tailgate, 100W Type-C fast charging, wireless charging, and air-conditioning dehumidification.

Additionally, Kia announced on August 20 that Cai Xukun has joined as its brand ambassador — his first-ever automotive endorsement. Their collaboration centers on the slogan 'Where Your Heart Leads, You Become the Star' Everus, with three themed videos rolling out in phases starting August 26. Pre-orders generated 6,860 units within just 13 days — signaling strong initial market response.